How can I know my laptop's CPU temperature?

[Garulfo]

Hi!

Newbie question here.

I have had an alienware, area 51m, laptop for two years. It sometimes gets really hot, to the point of shutting down on it's own (or at least I am guessing it is because of the heat).

How can I know the temperature of my components? Is the CPU's temperature the only one relevant? Or should I also be checking into the GPU's?

And if so, how do I do that? Is a software or piece of hardware needed?

*EDIT* Also is there a temperature under which your computer is considered "safe"?

Thanks!

 

[chilled]

Everest is good, but I like MobileMeter better for laptops as I can leave running in the corner of the desktop. Google for them.

 

[Maximilian]

Download and install Speedfan Its great! Itll tell you CPU temps and more if it can.

 

[RKS]

I8KfanGUI works for my Dell. I am not sure about the Alienware but you can try here notebook forums